Machiavelli’s Advice For Nice Guys

About this video

• Video Title: Machiavelli’s Advice For Nice Guys
• Channel: The School of Life
• Speakers: N/A
• Duration: 00:05:17

Overview

This video explores Niccolò Machiavelli's political philosophy, particularly his advice on effectiveness in achieving goals. It contrasts the tendency for "wicked" individuals to succeed due to their willingness to use cunning and manipulation with the failure of "good" individuals who adhere strictly to principles. The video suggests that to effect positive change, one must learn strategies from those who are less scrupulous, prioritizing effectiveness over noble intentions.

Key takeaways

• Machiavelli's Central Observation: The "wicked" often succeed because they are willing to employ the darkest ingenuity, cunning, and even violence, unbound by principles.
• The Failure of "Good" Means: Adhering strictly to good means, such as persuasion through argument or kindness to enemies, often leads to failure in achieving desired outcomes.
• Critique of the Jesus Story: Machiavelli viewed the life of Jesus, from a practical standpoint, as a failure because his meekness led to humiliation and disregard.
• Learning from "Enemies": To be effective, particularly for "nice guys" or those with good intentions, it is crucial to learn strategies from successful but unscrupulous individuals (e.g., tyrants, slick operators).
• Effectiveness Over Intention: The video argues that ultimate success is measured by achievement, not by good intentions, and that change requires employing effective, sometimes morally ambiguous, tactics.